As I have discussed in Stress and Healing, increased or inappropriate stress levels can slow down or even shut down normal bodily responses involved in the healing process. It is easier said than done to reduced stress levels to a normal level to encourage appropriate healing but there may be some things you can do to help. My motto here is to try and create the best conditions for healing to be at its most efficient.
Here are some tips:
1. Understanding that there are generally two types of stress involved; one is the stress related to the pain problems, the other is the stress from all the other things in your life. It is not easy to reduce stress in your life but one way to reduce stress regarding your problem would be to start exploring it and maybe treat it with a bit of curiosity. Learn about it and try to stop ‘fighting’ it. Fighting it might activate your threat centres (discussed previously) and slow down healing again. A good pain physiotherapist should facilitate this process.
2. Eat a good balanced diet, trying to avoid toxins. Why make your body work harder sorting out toxins when it has enough on its plate working on healing? Try to avoid over-eating, drinking, smoking, and recreational drugs Give your body a chance to concentrate on healing rather than having to deal with poisons that can be avoided.
3. Cut down on caffeine.
4. Good sleep is vital – most efficient healing takes place during sleep. Good quality sleep equals good quality healing (caffeine reduction can help here).
5. Drink enough water.
6. Exercise every day. Make it relaxing and enjoyable. Even if it has nothing to do with the body part in pain you will still be improving circulation which will aid the healing process. Again, a good physiotherapist should facilitate this.
